Santa Cruz County homeless program reaches milestone

A Santa Cruz County program to find homes and coordinate services to the homeless has reached a milestone. Organizers of the 180/2020 Initiative announced Thursday that it has successfully housed its 500 th client.

The 180/2020 Initiative was established in 2012 and is supported by Santa Cruz County and all four cities in the county. The program coordinates services from numerous organizations and agencies that provide housing and support services to homeless men, women and families.

According to a statement from the organization, rising rental costs and a lack of available units are major challenges. There are currently 100 homeless families and individuals with active Section 8 vouchers who have been unable to find affordable housing.

“180/2020’s record over the last four years demonstrates that a focused effort can result in positive results. We still have more to do and I look forward to the challenge of expanding on our success, but we are making a difference by providing the stability people need to change their lives and change our community,” said Maile Earnest, director of the 180/2020 program.

The organization says other initiatives are in the works, including plans to open a County winter shelter, and an incentive-based program to encourage landlords to rent to homeless persons.